US5678881A - Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle - Google Patents

Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US5678881A
US5678881A US08/486,898 US48689895A US5678881A US 5678881 A US5678881 A US 5678881A US 48689895 A US48689895 A US 48689895A US 5678881 A US5678881 A US 5678881A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
catch
striker
roof
latching members
pair
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
US08/486,898
Inventor
Stephen P. Tokarz
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp
Original Assignee
ASC Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US07/940,570 external-priority patent/US5301987A/en
Application filed by ASC Inc filed Critical ASC Inc
Priority to US08/486,898 priority Critical patent/US5678881A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US5678881A publication Critical patent/US5678881A/en
Assigned to COMERICA BANK, AS AGENT reassignment COMERICA BANK, AS AGENT AMENDED AND RESTATED SECURITY Assignors: ASC EUROPE, LLC (MICHIGAN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY), ASC INCORPORATED (MICHIGAN CORPORATION)
Assigned to SPECIALTY VEHICLE ACQUISITION CORP. reassignment SPECIALTY VEHICLE ACQUISITION CORP. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: ASC INCORPORATED
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60JWINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
    • B60J7/00Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
    • B60J7/185Locking arrangements
    • B60J7/1851Locking arrangements for locking the foldable soft- or hard-top to the windshield header
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60JWINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
    • B60J7/00Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
    • B60J7/185Locking arrangements
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60JWINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
    • B60J7/00Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
    • B60J7/185Locking arrangements
    • B60J7/19Locking arrangements for rigid panels
    • B60J7/198Locking arrangements for rigid panels for locking tonneau covers such as covers for roof storage compartments or for pick-up truck beds
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05BLOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B81/00Power-actuated vehicle locks
    • E05B81/02Power-actuated vehicle locks characterised by the type of actuators used
    • E05B81/04Electrical
    • E05B81/06Electrical using rotary motors
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05BLOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B81/00Power-actuated vehicle locks
    • E05B81/12Power-actuated vehicle locks characterised by the function or purpose of the powered actuators
    • E05B81/20Power-actuated vehicle locks characterised by the function or purpose of the powered actuators for assisting final closing or for initiating opening
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10STECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S292/00Closure fasteners
    • Y10S292/05Automobile top latches

Definitions

  • This invention relates generally to convertible vehicles and specifically to an apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle.
  • latches In the automotive field, various types of latches are provided to secure movable panels to a body of an automotive vehicle. For example, latches have been used to secure passenger doors, a fuel filler door, a hood and a trunk lid. Traditionally, many of these latches employ a striker pin and a rotating catch mechanism biased by a spring to secure the striker pin within the catch. More recently, however, these older purely mechanical latch mechanisms have been replaced by electromechanical latching mechanisms. These latch catches are actuated by an electric motor and often include a pull down function as well.
  • a new and useful apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to a body of an automotive vehicle acts proximate with the front of the roof, rear of the roof, or both.
  • a catch secures a rearmost portion of a convertible roof to a tonneau cover.
  • a catch mechanism is substantially located and hidden within a front header thereby eliminating undesirable head impact obstructions or unsightliness.
  • a first catch mechanism secures a rear portion of a convertible roof to a tonneau cover and a substantially similar second catch mechanism secures a forward portion of the roof to a front header.
  • a further aspect of the present invention employs a movable striker for engagement with a catch.
  • a latching apparatus is employed in combination with a retractable hard-top roof. Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
  • FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a preferred embodiment of a front and rear latching apparatus of the present invention securing a soft-top convertible roof to a body of an automotive vehicle;
  • FIG. 2 is a fragmentary top elevational view showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 is a fragmentary front elevational view, partially in section, showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 2, illustrated in a disengaged position;
  • FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 3, illustrated in an engaged position;
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 6 is a sectional view, taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 2, showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention
  • FIG. 7 is a fragmentary top elevational view showing a preferred embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 8 is a fragmentary rear elevational view showing the preferred embodiment of the forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 7, illustrated in an engaged position;
  • FIG. 9 is a sectional view, taken along line 9--9 of FIG. 7, showing the preferred embodiment of the forward latching apparatus of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an alternate embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 11 is a fragmentary rear elevational view showing another alternate embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 12 is a fragmentary rear elevational view showing yet another alternate embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 13 is a sectional view, taken along line 13--13 of FIG. 12, showing the alternate embodiment of the forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 12;
  • FIG. 14 is a side elevational view showing the preferred embodiments of the forward and rear latching apparatuses of the present invention of FIGS. 2 through 9 employed in a retractable hard-top roof system, illustrated in an extended functional position;
  • FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the preferred embodiments of the forward and rear latching apparatuses of the present invention employed in the hard-top roof system of FIG. 14, illustrated in a retracted position;
  • FIG. 16 is a side elevational view showing the preferred embodiments of the forward and rear latching apparatuses of the present invention employed in the hard-top roof system of FIGS. 14 and 15, illustrated in the retracted position;
  • FIG. 17 is a rear elevational view showing a further alternate embodiment of a latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 18 is a rear elevational view showing yet another alternate embodiment of a latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1.
  • a preferred embodiment of a rear latching apparatus 18 of the present invention acts to secure a rearmost or number five roof bow 20 of a fabric covered convertible roof 22 to a body 24 of an automotive vehicle including a tonneau cover 30 and a rear quarter panel 40. More particularly, number five bow 20 has a pair of latch loops or strikers 50 which are engaged by a pair of catch mechanisms 60 to secure number five bow 20.
  • each striker 50 is made from quarter inch steel rod which is formed into a generally D-shape and spot welded to the underframing 104 (FIG. 3) of number five bow 20.
  • striker 50 could be riveted, adhered or bolted. If bolted, the striker's position can be adjusted by slipping the striker's orientation with respect to the bolts.
  • striker 50 is aligned with respect to the longitudinal center line of the vehicle whereby each catch mechanism 60 is aligned perpendicular to the corresponding striker 50.
  • This particular alignment allows for a single drive mechanism or actuator 200 to operate both catch mechanisms 60 at either outermost corner of number five bow 20, as will be described in more detail hereinafter.
  • Drive mechanism 200 includes a rack and pinion assembly having two opposing racks 302 and 304 driven by a single pinion gear 306.
  • Rack 302 translates transversely thereby causing a pair of catches 320 to engage and disengage strikers 50.
  • This particular configuration allows both catch mechanisms 60 to be actuated by a single drive mechanism 200. Because of this symmetry of operation, only the left side (as viewed from the rear of the vehicle) catch mechanism 60 has been shown. However, it can be appreciated that the configuration of the right side is substantially similar.
  • Rear latching apparatus 18 operates as follows.
  • Catch 320 engages striker 50 to secure number five bow 20. More particularly, as pinion gear 306 rotates, rack 302 translates laterally.
  • Attached to rack 302 is a connecting element or rod assembly 324 which attaches to catch 320.
  • rod assembly 324 includes a 1/8" steel rod 325 flattened on either end 325a and 325b which are attached on one end to the rack 302 by way of rivets 326 and 328 and links 330 and 332.
  • Rod 325 is attached on the other end to catch 320 by way of rivets 334 and 336 and links 338 and 339. It can be appreciated that ordinary skill can be used to modify the manner in which rack 302 and catch 320 are mechanically linked.
  • connecting rod 325 be fashioned of heavier material.
  • clockwise rotation of pinion gear 306 translates rack 302 and catch 320 from a striker disengaged position (FIG. 3) to a striker engaged position (FIG. 4) toward the vehicle centerline.
  • counter clockwise rotation of pinion gear 306 translates rack 302 and catch 320 from the striker engaged position to the striker disengaged position.
  • rack 302 "pulls” or tensions catch 320 to engage striker 50, and “pushes” or compresses to disengage catch 320 from striker 50.
  • the opposite side catch is “pulled” by rack 304 to engage the corresponding striker and is “pushed” to disengage.
  • the single drive mechanism 200 accomplishes both the latching and unlatching function for both rear catch mechanisms 60.
  • catch mechanism 60 includes the catch 320, which is formed from 1/4" steel in a hook-like J-shape.
  • a latch notch 350 has a sloped edge 352 thereby defining the short leg of the "J-shape".
  • Catch 320 may need to be fashioned from heavier material or may have varying shapes depending upon the specific loading conditions.
  • Upper and lower slotted guide tracks 402 and 404 are formed along the lateral edges of catch 320.
  • a catch bracket 406, which is bolted to the underside of tonneau cover 30, has guide pins 408 that engage guide tracks 402 and 404 of catch 320. This secures catch 320 vertically with respect to bracket 406 while still allowing it to slide laterally within bracket 406.
  • Guide pins 408 are secured within catch bracket 406 using rivet caps 410.
  • Guide pins 408 have a flattened pin portion 412 which both engage guide pin slots 414 of catch bracket 406 as well as guide tracks 402 and 404 of catch 320.
  • Catch bracket 406 has a generally U-shaped channel 420 designed to allow striker 50 to clear catch bracket 406. This relationship can be better appreciated by referring to FIGS. 3 and 4. As number five bow 20 is lowered into position, striker 50 enters an access hole 500 in tonneau cover 30. Once through access hole 500, striker 50 enters the void in channel 420 of catch bracket 406. Thus, channel 420 provides sufficient clearance for striker 50 to reach the proper position for being engaged by catch 320. As catch 320 is moved from the disengaged (FIG. 3) to the engaged (FIG.
  • striker 50 travels along sloped edge 352 from a narrow end 354 toward a base 356 of notch 350 in a line of travel substantially perpendicular to that of the movement of catch 320.
  • the final resting spot of striker 50 is at base 356, where striker 50 is fully engaged in latch notch 350 of catch 320.
  • a position sensor or switch can be placed at base 356 to provide an indication whether or not striker 50 is fully engaged.
  • catch mechanism 60 is capable of pulling down number five bow 20 to ensure a snug fit when latched.
  • a further vertically movable extension of catch 320 or striker 50 may be provided to accentuate the pull down function.
  • Such a vertical pull down extension is commonly used with strikers on trunk lid latches.
  • weather stripping 450 can be placed along the lower edge of number five bow 20 where it contacts tonneau cover 30 so as to provide a barrier to infiltration. As number five bow 20 is snugged against tonneau cover 30, weather stripping 450 is compressed.
  • Pinion gear 306 of drive mechanism 200 is rotated by a 12 Volt D.C. electric gear motor 510, commercially available from any number of sources, such as Jideco or Nippondenso.
  • Pinion gear 306 is affixed to an output shaft of motor 510.
  • Racks 302 and 304, and motor 510 are held in place by a lower and an upper mounting bracket 520 and 521, respectively.
  • lower mounting bracket 520 has channels 522 and 524 which provide tracks for racks 302 and 304 to slide within.
  • Both lower and upper mounting brackets 520 and 521 include mounting holes 530 into which bolts 531 are placed for engagement with nuts 532.
  • motor 510 is secured to lower mounting bracket 520 and lower mounting bracket 520 is attached to upper mounting bracket 521.
  • Racks 302 and 304 are sandwiched in place between mounting brackets 520 and 521 by bolts and nuts as well with the entire mounting bracket and drive mechanism assembly 200 (see FIG. 3) affixed to the underside of tonneau cover 30 by way of spot welds.
  • upper mounting bracket 521 has an S-shaped bend 550 to allow clearance of pinion gear 306 when drive mechanism 200 is welded to the car.
  • the configuration of the mounting brackets can be modified to best suit any particular vehicle.
  • the latching mechanism of the present invention is able to both pull down the number five bow and secure it. This has the advantage of reducing the amount of intervention required of a vehicle occupant when trying to close the convertible roof. For example, when used in conjunction with an automated top stack mechanism, the occupant does not need to manually latch the number five bow. Instead, the latching mechanism of the present invention is able to "grab" the number five bow and pull it down to a secure position once the five bow is in the vicinity of its final resting position without requiring the occupant to manually push down on the number five bow to bring it into position for latching.
  • the latching mechanism of the present invention employs a dual rack and pinion with rigid connecting rods
  • a single drive pinion can be used to "pull" both of the latches closed and “push” both of the latches open. This reduces the complexity of the latching mechanism without sacrificing performance.
  • the drive mechanism can be modified to take the form of a dual rack and pinion with non rigid connections between the racks and catches. In such an embodiment, one rack translates to engage the left catch and disengage the right catch, while the other rack translates to engage the right catch and disengage the left catch.
  • a window shade mechanism could be employed whereby the drive mechanism causes a flexible cord or cable to be spooled and unspooled to translate the catches between the engaged and disengaged positions.
  • the drive mechanism causes a flexible cord or cable to be spooled and unspooled to translate the catches between the engaged and disengaged positions.
  • a single drive mechanism can still be used to move both catches, thereby still retaining the complexity reduction advantages of the presently preferred embodiment.
  • Forward latching apparatus 600 has a centrally located drive mechanism or actuator 602, a pair of connecting elements 604 and a pair of catch mechanisms 606. Since both connecting elements 604 and catch mechanisms 606 are substantially symmetrical about the centerline of the vehicle, only the right side (as viewed from behind the automotive vehicle) will be described hereinafter.
  • Drive mechanism 602 consists of an electric motor 610 and a rack and pinion arrangement similar to that described above regarding rear latching apparatus 18 (see FIG. 5).
  • a manually operated actuator such as a hand crank, an electromagnetic solenoid-type system or the like could be employed in place of electric motor 610 for any of the forward or rear latching apparatuses discussed within this application.
  • Connecting element 604 is securely attached and protectively hidden within a front header assembly 612 which can be aesthetically covered by a garnish molding 614.
  • Connecting element 604 is also substantially similar to that heretofore discussed with regard to rear latching apparatus 18 (see FIG. 5).
  • the rack and pinion systems preferably described within any of the forward and rear latching apparatuses may be replaced by a variety of other known coupling elements such as a sprocket and chain system, a cable system or a rod system.
  • Connecting elements 604 and catch mechanisms 606 are disposed within front header assembly 612.
  • Each catch mechanism 606 includes a substantially vertically oriented catch 620 and a substantially horizontally oriented carrier 622.
  • Carrier 622 is designed to move in a linearly transverse or cross car manner between a bracket 624 and a lower surface 626 of front header assembly 612 to which it is attached.
  • Catch 620 has a sloped edge 628 which defines an outwardly sloping notch.
  • a soft-top convertible roof assembly 640 has five roof bows, the forwardmost of which is known as a number one roof bow 642.
  • a fabric covering 644 spans between the bows.
  • a pair of latch loops or strikers 650 project from number one bow 642.
  • Each striker 650 is substantially D-shaped with a somewhat horizontal member 652 running in a fore and aft manner.
  • a pair of tapered centering pins 654 also project downward from number one bow 642 for engagement with holes in front header assembly 612.
  • Drive mechanism 602 and connecting elements 604 are actuable to translate catches 620 from an outboard unengaged position to a striker engaging position, closer to the vehicle centerline, as is shown in the currently referenced figures.
  • strikers 650 and centering pins 654 are extendable into their respective receiving holes 660 and 662. At that point, sloped edge 628 of each catch 620 can be moved to engage and pull down horizontal member 652 of each striker 650.
  • one or both catches 620 can be reversed with sloped edges 628 projecting outboard away from centrally located drive mechanism 602.
  • connecting elements 604 would consist of flexible cables or a drive shaft and gear arrangement wherein the inwardly pulling forces applied by drive mechanism 602 would be reversed by a pulley or geared coupling to outwardly pull catches 620 from a disengaged position to a catch loop engaging position outboard therefrom.
  • a pair of rigid rods could also be used to "push" catches 620 outboard toward their striker engaging positions.
  • FIG. 10 discloses another alternate embodiment wherein catches 620 are oriented with sloped edges 628 facing in an outboard direction away from the vehicle centerline. An upper portion of front header assembly 612 is removed to show the orientation of catches 620.
  • this embodiment employs a pair of drive mechanisms 680 remotely located below a horizontal plane defined by a lower edge 681 of a windshield 682. These drive mechanisms 680 are preferably fractional horsepower DC electric motors which may be positioned along kick panels 683 of the vehicle. Of course, a variety of other remote locations may be provided and a single remotely located drive mechanism 680 may drive both catches 620.
  • a coupling element 684 consists of a flexible cable which can be routed through the vehicle A pillars 686 for attachment to a carrier 688 affixed to each catch 620.
  • remotely located drive mechanisms 680 can synchronously move catches 620 from an inwardly located disengaging position to an outwardly located striker engaging position.
  • the present embodiment is desirable if extra packaging space is required along front header assembly 612 proximate with the vehicle centerline.
  • packaging space is available for overhead console lamps, sunglass bins, compass readouts or the like.
  • FIG. 11 shows yet another alternate embodiment incorporating the teachings of the present invention.
  • This embodiment comprises a centrally located drive mechanism 700, a pair of connecting elements 702 and a pair of catch mechanisms 704, all of which are located within a front header assembly 706.
  • Drive mechanism 700 is preferably a fractional homepower DC electric motor but may alternately be a manually operated crank or the like.
  • Drive mechanism 700 serves to pull a flexible braided cable 708 within a sheath 710.
  • Catch mechanism 704 includes a rotatable catch 720, a pivot pin 722 and a biasing spring 724. Pivot pin 722 is mounted to bracketry (not shown) affixed to front header assembly 706. In this embodiment, catch 720 is pivotable in a cross car or transverse manner.
  • Biasing spring 724 serves to urge catch 720 to its catch loop engaging position 726.
  • Catch 720 may alternately be pivoted to its disengaging position 726' by a pivotable coupling attached to connecting element 702 upon actuation of drive mechanism 700.
  • a rod, chain, or drive shaft and gear system may be substituted in place of the presently described connecting element 702.
  • a drive mechanism can be directly coupled to catch720 at each outboard location.
  • the remotely located drive mechanisms of the prior embodiment can be employed with a disengagably biased catch of the present exemplary embodiment.
  • catch 720 can be reversed to pivot inwardly toward the vehicle centerline to engage a striker.
  • FIGS. 12 and 13 another alternate embodiment of forward latching apparatus 600 provides a centrally located drive mechanism 800, a pair of connecting elements or rods 802 and a pair of fore and aft rotating catch mechanisms 804.
  • Drive mechanism 800 is secured within a front header assembly 806.
  • Rods 802 and catch mechanisms 804 are also rotatably disposed within front header assembly 806.
  • Each catch mechanism 804 is defined by a pivotable catch 810 and bracketry (not shown) mounted to front header assembly 806.
  • a substantially horizontal member 812 of a pair of roof mounted strikers 814 are oriented in a substantially cross car manner.
  • each catch 810 is pivotable fore and aft from a disengaging position, closest to a windshield 816, to a striker engaging position as is shown in FIG. 13.
  • Catch 810 can be alternately reversed to rotate forward from a disengaging position to a striker engaging position closest to windshield 816.
  • Drive mechanism 800 can also be directly coupled to catch mechanism 804 at each outboard location.
  • FIG. 17 Yet another alternate embodiment apparatus of the present invention is shown in FIG. 17.
  • a stationary catch 960 is located proximate with a panel 962 such as a front header assembly or a tonneau cover.
  • a striker 964 which is pivotable about a pivot pin 966 by a connecting element or cable 968 and a drive mechanism such as an electric motor 970.
  • Striker 964, connecting element 968 and drive mechanism 970 are mounted to a forward or rear portion of a roof bow or panel 972 depending on the application.
  • the striker and catch can be inverted on opposite vehicle panels. Therefore, striker 964 is pivotable from a catch engaging position 974 to a disengaging position 974'. It is intended that drive mechanism 970 is centrally located to actuate a pair of transversely disposed strikers 964.
  • FIG. 18 another embodiment latching apparatus of the present invention has a linearly movable striker assembly 980, a connecting element or rod 982 and a drive mechanism or electric motor 986.
  • Striker assembly 980 is comprised of a striker 988 projecting from a carrier 990 which is slidably trapped between a bracket 992 and a panel 994 such as a front header assembly or a member attached to a tonneau cover.
  • a catch 996 protrudes from a roof 998 and is engagable when striker 988 is moved from disengaging position 999 to catch engaging position 999' by drive mechanism 986 and connecting element 982.
  • Catch 996 and striker assembly 980 may be alternatively inverted. It is intended that drive mechanism 986 is centrally located to actuate a pair of transversely disposed strikers 964.
  • a hand crank or electromagnetic solenoid-type actuator may be used to pull, push or rotate chains, cables, rods, gears, belts or the like.
  • These strikers or catches may also provide a vertically translating pull-down feature as is commonly used in trunk lid latches.
  • Hard-top roof system 900 includes a rigid front roof panel 902 and a rigid rear roof panel 904 which are coupled to one another and to the vehicle body for retractable movement. Hard-top roof system 900 is retractable from a fully extended functional position 906 (See FIG. 14) to a fully retracted and stowed position 906' (see FIGS. 15 and 16).
  • a pivotable tonneau cover 908 and a plurality of rotatable escutcheons 910 are provided.
  • An exemplary forward pair of strikers 920 project downward from front roof panel 902 for engagement with any of the aforementioned embodiments of the present invention latching apparatuses disposed within a front header assembly 922. Furthermore, a rear pair of strikers 924 project from rear roof panel 904 through their respective receiving holes 926 within tonneau cover 908 for engagement with a latching apparatus of the present invention.
  • vehicles having hard-top and soft-top roof combinations may employ any of the previously disclosed latching apparatuses of the present invention.
  • any of the forward latching apparatus embodiments described heretofore may be employed to secure the rear strikers projecting from the rearmost roof bow or panel.
  • any of the aforementioned catch and striker mechanisms may be disposed proximate with the tonneau cover or the vehicle body adjacent to the tonneau cover.
  • this aspect of the present invention is advantageous over traditional latches in that a substantially similar latching apparatus or components thereof may be employed for securing either or both the forwardmost roof bow or panel and the rearmost roof bow or panel to the vehicle body.
  • This symmetry of parts achieves lower tooling costs, less part numbers and reduced assembly and service complexity over conventional latching systems.
  • the present invention use of common parts for both the forward and rear latching functions even applies to many conventional type latches as long as they maintain substantially the same construction and function within the forward and rear roof securing applications.
  • the catch mechanisms may have a variety of differing shapes as long as they are capable of engaging a striker.
  • the strikers discussed above may be eyelet-shaped, hook-shaped, T-shaped or L-shaped rather than the aforementioned preferred D-shape design.
  • any of the aforementioned embodiments may be employed in a roof system combining one or more hard and soft-top panels.
  • the function or mounting surface describing heretofore that is typically associated with a tonneau cover may be replaced by any body panel or the like serving a similar function therefore.
  • any of the latching apparatuses described herein may be used in combination with a variety of hard-top roof systems including roofs that are slidable, retractable into a trunk of the vehicle, or ones that are vertically stowable.
  • Various materials have been disclosed in an exemplary fashion, however, a variety of other materials may of course be employed. It is intended by the following claims to cover these and any other departures from the disclosed embodiments which fall within the true spirit of this invention.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Vehicle Step Arrangements And Article Storage (AREA)
  • Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
  • Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)

Abstract

A latching mechanism and method secures a convertible roof to a body of an automotive vehicle acting proximate with the front of the roof, rear of the roof, or both. In one aspect of the present invention, a catch secures the rearmost portion of a convertible roof to a tonneau cover. In a further aspect of the present invention, a catch mechanism is substantially located and hidden within a front header thereby eliminating undesirable head impact obstructions or unsightliness. In another aspect of the present invention, a first catch mechanism secures a rear portion of a convertible roof to a tonneau cover and a substantially similar second catch mechanism secures a forward portion of the roof to a front header. A further aspect of the present invention employs a movable striker for engagement with a catch. In yet another aspect of the present invention, a latching apparatus is employed in the combination with a retractable hard top roof.

Description

This is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/220,294, filed Mar. 30, 1994, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,624,149, entitled "Apparatus and Method for Securing A Convertible Roof To an Automated Vehicle" which is a continuation-in-part application of Ser. No. 940,570, filed Sep. 4, 1992, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,301,987, which issued on Apr. 12, 1994.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to convertible vehicles and specifically to an apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle.
In the automotive field, various types of latches are provided to secure movable panels to a body of an automotive vehicle. For example, latches have been used to secure passenger doors, a fuel filler door, a hood and a trunk lid. Traditionally, many of these latches employ a striker pin and a rotating catch mechanism biased by a spring to secure the striker pin within the catch. More recently, however, these older purely mechanical latch mechanisms have been replaced by electromechanical latching mechanisms. These latch catches are actuated by an electric motor and often include a pull down function as well.
Various systems have also been constructed which serve to retain a rearmost roof bow of a convertible roof to a tonneau cover when the roof is in its raised functional position. For example, a motor driven rotatable nut mounted beneath a tonneau cover used to engage a threaded stud extending from a rearmost roof bow is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,067,768 entitled "Power Convertible Top with Automatic Top and Tonneau Sequencing" which issued to Fischbach on Nov. 26, 1991.
Additionally, many conventional latching mechanisms have been employed to attach the frontmost roof bow of a convertible top to a front header which surrounds the upper portion of a windshield. Such devices are disclosed in the following U.S. Patents: U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,939 entitled "Power Latch System" which issued to Miilu on Oct. 22, 1991; U.S. Pat. No. 5,042,869 entitled "Locking Arrangement for a Motor Vehicle Top" which issued to Brin on Aug. 27, 1991; U.S. Pat. No. 4,817,999 entitled "Convertible Header Latch Mechanism" which issued to Drew on Apr. 4, 1989; U.S. Pat. No. 4,537,440 entitled "Vehicle with a Convertible Top" which issued to Brockway et al. on Aug. 27, 1985; U.S. Pat. No. 2,852,292 entitled "Convertible Top Power Header Lock" which issued to Galla on Sep. 16, 1958; and, U.S. Pat. No. 2,560,459 entitled "Locking Mechanism for Convertible Tops" which issued to Lundberg et al. on Jul. 10, 1951. However, all of these references show the latching mechanisms mounted within the retractable roof. This added weight hanging on the retractable roof creates additional stresses to the roof members thereby necessitating more rigid, heavier and expensive linkage members and actuators. Other securing constructions having a latching mechanism incorporated within a front header are disclosed in the following U.S. patents: U.S. Pat. No. 5,186,516 entitled "Power Latch System" which issued to Alexander et al. on Feb. 16, 1993; U.S. Pat. No. 5,085,483 entitled "Convertible Top Latching Mechanism" which issued to Alexander on Feb. 4, 1992; U.S. Pat. No. 5,064,241 entitled "Closing Device for Convertible Vehicles" which issued to Ohrle on Nov. 12, 1991; U.S. Pat. No. 4,702,505 entitled "Convertible Top Latch Mechanism" which also issued to Alexander on Oct. 27, 1987; U.S. Pat. No. 3,425,742 entitled "Locking Means for Locking the Top of a Convertible Automobile" which issued to Rauber on Feb. 4, 1969; and, U.S. Pat. No. 2,586,648 entitled "Locking Mechanism for Folding Tops" which issued to Hale et al. on Feb. 19, 1952; all of which are incorporated by reference herewithin. Although, many of these conventional devices function satisfactory, there still remains room for further simplification, cost reduction and common usage of parts.
In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a new and useful apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to a body of an automotive vehicle acts proximate with the front of the roof, rear of the roof, or both. In one aspect of the present invention, a catch secures a rearmost portion of a convertible roof to a tonneau cover. In a further aspect of the present invention, a catch mechanism is substantially located and hidden within a front header thereby eliminating undesirable head impact obstructions or unsightliness. In another aspect of the present invention, a first catch mechanism secures a rear portion of a convertible roof to a tonneau cover and a substantially similar second catch mechanism secures a forward portion of the roof to a front header. A further aspect of the present invention employs a movable striker for engagement with a catch. In yet another aspect of the present invention, a latching apparatus is employed in combination with a retractable hard-top roof. Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a preferred embodiment of a front and rear latching apparatus of the present invention securing a soft-top convertible roof to a body of an automotive vehicle;
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary top elevational view showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary front elevational view, partially in section, showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 2, illustrated in a disengaged position;
FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 3, illustrated in an engaged position;
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 2;
FIG. 6 is a sectional view, taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 2, showing the preferred embodiment of the rear latching apparatus of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a fragmentary top elevational view showing a preferred embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
FIG. 8 is a fragmentary rear elevational view showing the preferred embodiment of the forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 7, illustrated in an engaged position;
FIG. 9 is a sectional view, taken along line 9--9 of FIG. 7, showing the preferred embodiment of the forward latching apparatus of the present invention;
FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an alternate embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
FIG. 11 is a fragmentary rear elevational view showing another alternate embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
FIG. 12 is a fragmentary rear elevational view showing yet another alternate embodiment of a forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1;
FIG. 13 is a sectional view, taken along line 13--13 of FIG. 12, showing the alternate embodiment of the forward latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 is a side elevational view showing the preferred embodiments of the forward and rear latching apparatuses of the present invention of FIGS. 2 through 9 employed in a retractable hard-top roof system, illustrated in an extended functional position;
FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the preferred embodiments of the forward and rear latching apparatuses of the present invention employed in the hard-top roof system of FIG. 14, illustrated in a retracted position;
FIG. 16 is a side elevational view showing the preferred embodiments of the forward and rear latching apparatuses of the present invention employed in the hard-top roof system of FIGS. 14 and 15, illustrated in the retracted position;
FIG. 17 is a rear elevational view showing a further alternate embodiment of a latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1; and
FIG. 18 is a rear elevational view showing yet another alternate embodiment of a latching apparatus of the present invention of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
As shown in FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of a rear latching apparatus 18 of the present invention acts to secure a rearmost or number five roof bow 20 of a fabric covered convertible roof 22 to a body 24 of an automotive vehicle including a tonneau cover 30 and a rear quarter panel 40. More particularly, number five bow 20 has a pair of latch loops or strikers 50 which are engaged by a pair of catch mechanisms 60 to secure number five bow 20.
As can be seen better in FIGS. 2 through 5, each striker 50 is made from quarter inch steel rod which is formed into a generally D-shape and spot welded to the underframing 104 (FIG. 3) of number five bow 20. It can be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the manner in which the striker 50 is affixed to the vehicle panel can be adapted to best suit the needs of the particular situation. For example, striker 50 could be riveted, adhered or bolted. If bolted, the striker's position can be adjusted by slipping the striker's orientation with respect to the bolts. In this preferred embodiment, striker 50 is aligned with respect to the longitudinal center line of the vehicle whereby each catch mechanism 60 is aligned perpendicular to the corresponding striker 50. This particular alignment allows for a single drive mechanism or actuator 200 to operate both catch mechanisms 60 at either outermost corner of number five bow 20, as will be described in more detail hereinafter.
Drive mechanism 200 includes a rack and pinion assembly having two opposing racks 302 and 304 driven by a single pinion gear 306. Rack 302 translates transversely thereby causing a pair of catches 320 to engage and disengage strikers 50. This particular configuration allows both catch mechanisms 60 to be actuated by a single drive mechanism 200. Because of this symmetry of operation, only the left side (as viewed from the rear of the vehicle) catch mechanism 60 has been shown. However, it can be appreciated that the configuration of the right side is substantially similar.
Rear latching apparatus 18 operates as follows. Catch 320 engages striker 50 to secure number five bow 20. More particularly, as pinion gear 306 rotates, rack 302 translates laterally. Attached to rack 302 is a connecting element or rod assembly 324 which attaches to catch 320. In this embodiment, rod assembly 324 includes a 1/8" steel rod 325 flattened on either end 325a and 325b which are attached on one end to the rack 302 by way of rivets 326 and 328 and links 330 and 332. Rod 325 is attached on the other end to catch 320 by way of rivets 334 and 336 and links 338 and 339. It can be appreciated that ordinary skill can be used to modify the manner in which rack 302 and catch 320 are mechanically linked. Similarly, loading conditions encountered in a particular vehicle application may dictate that connecting rod 325 be fashioned of heavier material. As viewed from the top, as shown in FIG. 2, clockwise rotation of pinion gear 306 translates rack 302 and catch 320 from a striker disengaged position (FIG. 3) to a striker engaged position (FIG. 4) toward the vehicle centerline. Conversely, counter clockwise rotation of pinion gear 306 translates rack 302 and catch 320 from the striker engaged position to the striker disengaged position. Here, because a rigid connecting rod assembly 324 is used, rack 302 "pulls" or tensions catch 320 to engage striker 50, and "pushes" or compresses to disengage catch 320 from striker 50. Likewise, the opposite side catch is "pulled" by rack 304 to engage the corresponding striker and is "pushed" to disengage. Thus, the single drive mechanism 200 accomplishes both the latching and unlatching function for both rear catch mechanisms 60.
Referring to FIG. 5, catch mechanism 60 includes the catch 320, which is formed from 1/4" steel in a hook-like J-shape. A latch notch 350 has a sloped edge 352 thereby defining the short leg of the "J-shape". Catch 320, of course, may need to be fashioned from heavier material or may have varying shapes depending upon the specific loading conditions. Upper and lower slotted guide tracks 402 and 404 are formed along the lateral edges of catch 320. A catch bracket 406, which is bolted to the underside of tonneau cover 30, has guide pins 408 that engage guide tracks 402 and 404 of catch 320. This secures catch 320 vertically with respect to bracket 406 while still allowing it to slide laterally within bracket 406. Guide pins 408 are secured within catch bracket 406 using rivet caps 410. Guide pins 408 have a flattened pin portion 412 which both engage guide pin slots 414 of catch bracket 406 as well as guide tracks 402 and 404 of catch 320.
Catch bracket 406 has a generally U-shaped channel 420 designed to allow striker 50 to clear catch bracket 406. This relationship can be better appreciated by referring to FIGS. 3 and 4. As number five bow 20 is lowered into position, striker 50 enters an access hole 500 in tonneau cover 30. Once through access hole 500, striker 50 enters the void in channel 420 of catch bracket 406. Thus, channel 420 provides sufficient clearance for striker 50 to reach the proper position for being engaged by catch 320. As catch 320 is moved from the disengaged (FIG. 3) to the engaged (FIG. 4) position, striker 50 travels along sloped edge 352 from a narrow end 354 toward a base 356 of notch 350 in a line of travel substantially perpendicular to that of the movement of catch 320. The final resting spot of striker 50 is at base 356, where striker 50 is fully engaged in latch notch 350 of catch 320. Should it be desired, a position sensor or switch can be placed at base 356 to provide an indication whether or not striker 50 is fully engaged. As striker 50 is being engaged and travelling along sloped edge 352 of catch 320, number five bow 20 is pulled down and snugged against an appearance surface of tonneau cover 30. Thus, catch mechanism 60 is capable of pulling down number five bow 20 to ensure a snug fit when latched. A further vertically movable extension of catch 320 or striker 50 may be provided to accentuate the pull down function. Such a vertical pull down extension is commonly used with strikers on trunk lid latches. As can be appreciated by referencing FIGS. 3 and 4, weather stripping 450 can be placed along the lower edge of number five bow 20 where it contacts tonneau cover 30 so as to provide a barrier to infiltration. As number five bow 20 is snugged against tonneau cover 30, weather stripping 450 is compressed.
Referring again to FIG. 2, drive mechanism 200 will be described in greater detail. Pinion gear 306 of drive mechanism 200 is rotated by a 12 Volt D.C. electric gear motor 510, commercially available from any number of sources, such as Jideco or Nippondenso. Pinion gear 306 is affixed to an output shaft of motor 510. Racks 302 and 304, and motor 510 are held in place by a lower and an upper mounting bracket 520 and 521, respectively. As can be seen best by referring to FIG. 6, lower mounting bracket 520 has channels 522 and 524 which provide tracks for racks 302 and 304 to slide within. Both lower and upper mounting brackets 520 and 521 include mounting holes 530 into which bolts 531 are placed for engagement with nuts 532. Thus, motor 510 is secured to lower mounting bracket 520 and lower mounting bracket 520 is attached to upper mounting bracket 521. Racks 302 and 304 are sandwiched in place between mounting brackets 520 and 521 by bolts and nuts as well with the entire mounting bracket and drive mechanism assembly 200 (see FIG. 3) affixed to the underside of tonneau cover 30 by way of spot welds. As can be seen in FIG. 6, upper mounting bracket 521 has an S-shaped bend 550 to allow clearance of pinion gear 306 when drive mechanism 200 is welded to the car. Of course, it can be appreciated that the configuration of the mounting brackets can be modified to best suit any particular vehicle.
The latching mechanism of the present invention is able to both pull down the number five bow and secure it. This has the advantage of reducing the amount of intervention required of a vehicle occupant when trying to close the convertible roof. For example, when used in conjunction with an automated top stack mechanism, the occupant does not need to manually latch the number five bow. Instead, the latching mechanism of the present invention is able to "grab" the number five bow and pull it down to a secure position once the five bow is in the vicinity of its final resting position without requiring the occupant to manually push down on the number five bow to bring it into position for latching.
Also, because the latching mechanism of the present invention employs a dual rack and pinion with rigid connecting rods, a single drive pinion can be used to "pull" both of the latches closed and "push" both of the latches open. This reduces the complexity of the latching mechanism without sacrificing performance. It can be appreciated, however, that should concerns like packaging or weight become a problem, the drive mechanism can be modified to take the form of a dual rack and pinion with non rigid connections between the racks and catches. In such an embodiment, one rack translates to engage the left catch and disengage the right catch, while the other rack translates to engage the right catch and disengage the left catch. Or, a window shade mechanism could be employed whereby the drive mechanism causes a flexible cord or cable to be spooled and unspooled to translate the catches between the engaged and disengaged positions. However, regardless of the particular configuration of the drive mechanism, a single drive mechanism can still be used to move both catches, thereby still retaining the complexity reduction advantages of the presently preferred embodiment.
A preferred embodiment of a forward latching apparatus 600 is shown in FIGS. 7 through 9. Forward latching apparatus 600 has a centrally located drive mechanism or actuator 602, a pair of connecting elements 604 and a pair of catch mechanisms 606. Since both connecting elements 604 and catch mechanisms 606 are substantially symmetrical about the centerline of the vehicle, only the right side (as viewed from behind the automotive vehicle) will be described hereinafter. Drive mechanism 602 consists of an electric motor 610 and a rack and pinion arrangement similar to that described above regarding rear latching apparatus 18 (see FIG. 5). Of course, a manually operated actuator such as a hand crank, an electromagnetic solenoid-type system or the like could be employed in place of electric motor 610 for any of the forward or rear latching apparatuses discussed within this application. Drive mechanism 602 is securely attached and protectively hidden within a front header assembly 612 which can be aesthetically covered by a garnish molding 614. Connecting element 604 is also substantially similar to that heretofore discussed with regard to rear latching apparatus 18 (see FIG. 5). Furthermore, the rack and pinion systems preferably described within any of the forward and rear latching apparatuses may be replaced by a variety of other known coupling elements such as a sprocket and chain system, a cable system or a rod system. Connecting elements 604 and catch mechanisms 606 are disposed within front header assembly 612.
Each catch mechanism 606 includes a substantially vertically oriented catch 620 and a substantially horizontally oriented carrier 622. Carrier 622 is designed to move in a linearly transverse or cross car manner between a bracket 624 and a lower surface 626 of front header assembly 612 to which it is attached. Catch 620 has a sloped edge 628 which defines an outwardly sloping notch.
In this presently preferred embodiment, a soft-top convertible roof assembly 640 has five roof bows, the forwardmost of which is known as a number one roof bow 642. A fabric covering 644 spans between the bows. A pair of latch loops or strikers 650 project from number one bow 642. Each striker 650 is substantially D-shaped with a somewhat horizontal member 652 running in a fore and aft manner. A pair of tapered centering pins 654 also project downward from number one bow 642 for engagement with holes in front header assembly 612.
Drive mechanism 602 and connecting elements 604 are actuable to translate catches 620 from an outboard unengaged position to a striker engaging position, closer to the vehicle centerline, as is shown in the currently referenced figures. Thus, when roof 640 is extended to its functional position covering a vehicle passenger compartment 656 (see FIG. 1 ), strikers 650 and centering pins 654 are extendable into their respective receiving holes 660 and 662. At that point, sloped edge 628 of each catch 620 can be moved to engage and pull down horizontal member 652 of each striker 650.
Alternately, one or both catches 620 can be reversed with sloped edges 628 projecting outboard away from centrally located drive mechanism 602. In this scenario, connecting elements 604 would consist of flexible cables or a drive shaft and gear arrangement wherein the inwardly pulling forces applied by drive mechanism 602 would be reversed by a pulley or geared coupling to outwardly pull catches 620 from a disengaged position to a catch loop engaging position outboard therefrom. A pair of rigid rods could also be used to "push" catches 620 outboard toward their striker engaging positions.
FIG. 10 discloses another alternate embodiment wherein catches 620 are oriented with sloped edges 628 facing in an outboard direction away from the vehicle centerline. An upper portion of front header assembly 612 is removed to show the orientation of catches 620. Unlike the prior alternate embodiment, this embodiment employs a pair of drive mechanisms 680 remotely located below a horizontal plane defined by a lower edge 681 of a windshield 682. These drive mechanisms 680 are preferably fractional horsepower DC electric motors which may be positioned along kick panels 683 of the vehicle. Of course, a variety of other remote locations may be provided and a single remotely located drive mechanism 680 may drive both catches 620. A coupling element 684 consists of a flexible cable which can be routed through the vehicle A pillars 686 for attachment to a carrier 688 affixed to each catch 620. Thus, remotely located drive mechanisms 680 can synchronously move catches 620 from an inwardly located disengaging position to an outwardly located striker engaging position. The present embodiment is desirable if extra packaging space is required along front header assembly 612 proximate with the vehicle centerline. Thus, packaging space is available for overhead console lamps, sunglass bins, compass readouts or the like.
FIG. 11 shows yet another alternate embodiment incorporating the teachings of the present invention. This embodiment comprises a centrally located drive mechanism 700, a pair of connecting elements 702 and a pair of catch mechanisms 704, all of which are located within a front header assembly 706. Drive mechanism 700 is preferably a fractional homepower DC electric motor but may alternately be a manually operated crank or the like. Drive mechanism 700 serves to pull a flexible braided cable 708 within a sheath 710. Catch mechanism 704 includes a rotatable catch 720, a pivot pin 722 and a biasing spring 724. Pivot pin 722 is mounted to bracketry (not shown) affixed to front header assembly 706. In this embodiment, catch 720 is pivotable in a cross car or transverse manner. Biasing spring 724 serves to urge catch 720 to its catch loop engaging position 726. Catch 720 may alternately be pivoted to its disengaging position 726' by a pivotable coupling attached to connecting element 702 upon actuation of drive mechanism 700. A rod, chain, or drive shaft and gear system may be substituted in place of the presently described connecting element 702. Furthermore, a drive mechanism can be directly coupled to catch720 at each outboard location. Of course, the remotely located drive mechanisms of the prior embodiment can be employed with a disengagably biased catch of the present exemplary embodiment. Also, catch 720 can be reversed to pivot inwardly toward the vehicle centerline to engage a striker.
Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, another alternate embodiment of forward latching apparatus 600 provides a centrally located drive mechanism 800, a pair of connecting elements or rods 802 and a pair of fore and aft rotating catch mechanisms 804. Drive mechanism 800 is secured within a front header assembly 806. Rods 802 and catch mechanisms 804 are also rotatably disposed within front header assembly 806. Each catch mechanism 804 is defined by a pivotable catch 810 and bracketry (not shown) mounted to front header assembly 806. In this embodiment, a substantially horizontal member 812 of a pair of roof mounted strikers 814 are oriented in a substantially cross car manner. Accordingly, each catch 810 is pivotable fore and aft from a disengaging position, closest to a windshield 816, to a striker engaging position as is shown in FIG. 13. Catch 810 can be alternately reversed to rotate forward from a disengaging position to a striker engaging position closest to windshield 816. Drive mechanism 800 can also be directly coupled to catch mechanism 804 at each outboard location.
Yet another alternate embodiment apparatus of the present invention is shown in FIG. 17. In this embodiment, a stationary catch 960 is located proximate with a panel 962 such as a front header assembly or a tonneau cover. Operating in conjunction therewith is a striker 964 which is pivotable about a pivot pin 966 by a connecting element or cable 968 and a drive mechanism such as an electric motor 970. Striker 964, connecting element 968 and drive mechanism 970 are mounted to a forward or rear portion of a roof bow or panel 972 depending on the application. Of course, the striker and catch can be inverted on opposite vehicle panels. Therefore, striker 964 is pivotable from a catch engaging position 974 to a disengaging position 974'. It is intended that drive mechanism 970 is centrally located to actuate a pair of transversely disposed strikers 964.
Referring to FIG. 18, another embodiment latching apparatus of the present invention has a linearly movable striker assembly 980, a connecting element or rod 982 and a drive mechanism or electric motor 986. Striker assembly 980 is comprised of a striker 988 projecting from a carrier 990 which is slidably trapped between a bracket 992 and a panel 994 such as a front header assembly or a member attached to a tonneau cover. A catch 996 protrudes from a roof 998 and is engagable when striker 988 is moved from disengaging position 999 to catch engaging position 999' by drive mechanism 986 and connecting element 982. Catch 996 and striker assembly 980 may be alternatively inverted. It is intended that drive mechanism 986 is centrally located to actuate a pair of transversely disposed strikers 964.
A variety of alternate drive mechanisms and connecting elements may be employed for the apparatuses shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. For example, a hand crank or electromagnetic solenoid-type actuator may be used to pull, push or rotate chains, cables, rods, gears, belts or the like. These strikers or catches may also provide a vertically translating pull-down feature as is commonly used in trunk lid latches.
Any of the catch and striker embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 through 13, 17 and 18 may alternately by employed in combination with a retractable hard-top roof system 900 as is illustrated in FIGS. 14 through 16. Hard-top roof system 900 includes a rigid front roof panel 902 and a rigid rear roof panel 904 which are coupled to one another and to the vehicle body for retractable movement. Hard-top roof system 900 is retractable from a fully extended functional position 906 (See FIG. 14) to a fully retracted and stowed position 906' (see FIGS. 15 and 16). In this embodiment, a pivotable tonneau cover 908 and a plurality of rotatable escutcheons 910 are provided. An exemplary forward pair of strikers 920 project downward from front roof panel 902 for engagement with any of the aforementioned embodiments of the present invention latching apparatuses disposed within a front header assembly 922. Furthermore, a rear pair of strikers 924 project from rear roof panel 904 through their respective receiving holes 926 within tonneau cover 908 for engagement with a latching apparatus of the present invention. Of course, vehicles having hard-top and soft-top roof combinations may employ any of the previously disclosed latching apparatuses of the present invention.
It will be appreciated that any of the forward latching apparatus embodiments described heretofore may be employed to secure the rear strikers projecting from the rearmost roof bow or panel. Thus, any of the aforementioned catch and striker mechanisms may be disposed proximate with the tonneau cover or the vehicle body adjacent to the tonneau cover. Accordingly, this aspect of the present invention is advantageous over traditional latches in that a substantially similar latching apparatus or components thereof may be employed for securing either or both the forwardmost roof bow or panel and the rearmost roof bow or panel to the vehicle body. This symmetry of parts achieves lower tooling costs, less part numbers and reduced assembly and service complexity over conventional latching systems. Moreover, the present invention use of common parts for both the forward and rear latching functions even applies to many conventional type latches as long as they maintain substantially the same construction and function within the forward and rear roof securing applications.
While various embodiments of an apparatus for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle have been disclosed, it will be appreciated that various modifications may be made without departing from the present invention. For example, the catch mechanisms may have a variety of differing shapes as long as they are capable of engaging a striker. Furthermore, the strikers discussed above may be eyelet-shaped, hook-shaped, T-shaped or L-shaped rather than the aforementioned preferred D-shape design. Also, any of the aforementioned embodiments may be employed in a roof system combining one or more hard and soft-top panels. Moreover, the function or mounting surface describing heretofore that is typically associated with a tonneau cover may be replaced by any body panel or the like serving a similar function therefore. Additionally, any of the latching apparatuses described herein may be used in combination with a variety of hard-top roof systems including roofs that are slidable, retractable into a trunk of the vehicle, or ones that are vertically stowable. Various materials have been disclosed in an exemplary fashion, however, a variety of other materials may of course be employed. It is intended by the following claims to cover these and any other departures from the disclosed embodiments which fall within the true spirit of this invention.

Claims (16)

The invention claimed is:
1. An apparatus for securing a convertible roof to a body of an automotive vehicle, said apparatus comprising:
a pair of first latching members projecting from a portion of said body of said automotive vehicle;
a pair of second latching members pivotably mounted to said roof; and
a single drive mechanism pivotably moving said pair of second latching members along a substantially vertical plane about a fixed and substantially horizontal pivot for selectively engaging and disengaging said pair of first latching members thereby securing said roof to said body, at least one of said latching members having a hook-like shape, each of said pair of second latching members pivoting from a substantially horizontal and disengaged position to a substantially vertical and engaged position.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said portion of said body includes a movable tonneau cover; and
a catch mechanism of one of said latching members is positioned proximate to said tonneau cover when said tonneau cover is in a lowered position.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 further comprising:
a striker of another of said latching members extending from a substantially rearmost portion of said roof and through a hole disposed within said tonneau cover for engagement by said catch mechanism.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein
said first and second latching members have a substantially identical configuration.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:
a drive mechanism pulling portions of said pair of second latching members in substantially outboard directions away from said centerline of said automotive vehicle.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said roof includes a rigid front roof panel.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said roof further includes
a rigid rear roof panel, whereby said rigid roof panels are retractable to a retracted position and extendable to a functional position.
8. The apparatus of claim 7 wherein a striker of one of said latching members projects from said rear roof panel.
9. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said second latching members project from said front roof panel.
10. The apparatus of claim 11 further comprising:
a striker disposed rearwardly in said body substantially behind said pair of first latching members; and
a catch mechanism disposed rearwardly in said body substantially behind said pair of second latching members;
said catch mechanism pivotable to engage and disengage said striker.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said pair of first latching members are transversely displaced from each other, each of said pair of first latching members being actuated by said drive mechanism which includes a single length of flexible cable spanning between each of said pair of first latching members and a single actuator.
12. An apparatus for securing a convertible roof to a body of an automotive vehicle, said apparatus comprising:
a first catch mounted to said body of said automotive vehicle; and
a first striker pivotably mounted to said roof for selectively engaging and disengaging said first catch thereby securing said roof to said body, said first striker including an engagement member bridging between a pair of substantially parallel legs.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising:
a second striker disposed rearwardly and substantially behind said first striker; and
a second catch disposed rearwardly and substantially behind said first catch;
said second striker being pivotable to engage and disengage said second catch substantially simultaneous with engagement and disengagement of said first striker with said first catch.
14. The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising:
another striker transversely displaced from said first striker;
another catch transversely displaced from said first catch;
a single actuator moving said strikers for engaging said catches; and
a single length of cable coupling said first striker to said actuator.
15. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein:
said body includes a movable tonneau cover; and
said first catch is positioned proximate with said tonneau cover when said tonneau cover is in a lowered position.
16. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein said striker has a substantially U shape and said catch has a hook-like shape, said striker pivots about a pivot axis such that said engagement member of said striker selectively engages said catch which is stationarily fixed to said body.
US08/486,898 1992-09-04 1995-06-07 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle Expired - Fee Related US5678881A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/486,898 US5678881A (en) 1992-09-04 1995-06-07 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/940,570 US5301987A (en) 1992-09-04 1992-09-04 Convertible top stack latch
US08/220,294 US5624149A (en) 1992-09-04 1994-03-30 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle
US08/486,898 US5678881A (en) 1992-09-04 1995-06-07 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/220,294 Division US5624149A (en) 1992-09-04 1994-03-30 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US5678881A true US5678881A (en) 1997-10-21

Family

ID=26914735

Family Applications (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/220,294 Expired - Fee Related US5624149A (en) 1992-09-04 1994-03-30 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle
US08/486,898 Expired - Fee Related US5678881A (en) 1992-09-04 1995-06-07 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle
US08/714,007 Expired - Fee Related US5772275A (en) 1992-09-04 1996-09-13 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automobile vehicle

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/220,294 Expired - Fee Related US5624149A (en) 1992-09-04 1994-03-30 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/714,007 Expired - Fee Related US5772275A (en) 1992-09-04 1996-09-13 Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automobile vehicle

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (3) US5624149A (en)

Cited By (32)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6042174A (en) 1997-08-22 2000-03-28 Asc Incorporated Latching and control apparatus for an automotive vehicle convertible roof
US6155614A (en) * 1998-05-29 2000-12-05 Asc Incorporated Latching system for an automotive vehicle convertible roof
US6158786A (en) * 1997-05-21 2000-12-12 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Ag Latch for a top of a vehicle, especially an automobile
US6290281B1 (en) 1999-05-26 2001-09-18 Asc Incorporated Power latch for an automotive vehicle convertible roof system
EP1160113A2 (en) * 2000-05-31 2001-12-05 Hoerbiger Hydraulik GmbH Driving assembly for swingable parts of soft tops
US6419297B2 (en) * 1999-12-13 2002-07-16 Edscha Cabrio-Verdecksysteme Gmbh Unlocking device for vehicle convertible tops
EP1279539A2 (en) * 1999-03-04 2003-01-29 Josef Stehle + Söhne AG Tarpaulin drive
EP1389550A2 (en) 2002-08-15 2004-02-18 SSR Roof Systems, LLC Latch for an automotive vehicle having a convertible roof
US20040032146A1 (en) * 2002-08-15 2004-02-19 Frank Plesternings Convertible roof system
US20040032147A1 (en) * 2002-08-15 2004-02-19 Stefan Eichhorst Convertible roof latch
US20040201243A1 (en) * 2000-06-23 2004-10-14 Andreas Hasselgruber Locking arrangement for a movable hardtop vehicle roof
US20040222658A1 (en) * 2003-03-24 2004-11-11 Christopher Dilluvio Retractable roof structural system
US20040262943A1 (en) * 2003-06-30 2004-12-30 Johnan Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Retractable roof fixing apparatus
US20040262942A1 (en) * 2003-06-30 2004-12-30 Michael Willard Convertible roof apparatus with power roof bow linked to a tensioning bow
US20050194811A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2005-09-08 Benteler Automobiltechnik Gmbh Convertible automobile
US6957842B1 (en) 2004-04-30 2005-10-25 Asc Incorporated Convertible roof bow tensioning apparatus
US20050242616A1 (en) * 2004-04-30 2005-11-03 Macnee Arthur L Iii Joint locking device for a convertible roof system
US20050285410A1 (en) * 2002-11-14 2005-12-29 Doncov Stephen A Convertible top latch
US20060038411A1 (en) * 2004-08-20 2006-02-23 Frank Plesternings Support frame for header latch assembly
US20060097542A1 (en) * 2004-09-23 2006-05-11 Dilluvio Christopher J In-folding convertible roof
US20070284909A1 (en) * 2006-05-23 2007-12-13 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Convertible Roof
US7347482B2 (en) 2004-08-31 2008-03-25 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Tonneau cover system
US20080284200A1 (en) * 2007-05-15 2008-11-20 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Automotive Vehicle Convertible Roof System
US20080290688A1 (en) * 2005-07-21 2008-11-27 Franz-Ulrich Brockhoff Convertible Roof that Latches to an Upper Transverse Frame Part of the Windshield Frame
US20090072591A1 (en) * 2006-05-26 2009-03-19 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Centering Device for a Motor Vehicle Having a Retractable or Detachable Top
US20090179453A1 (en) * 2008-01-10 2009-07-16 Magna Car Top Systems Gmbh Closure for a movable roof
US20090224568A1 (en) * 2008-03-07 2009-09-10 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Automotive vehicle convertible roof system
US20090261625A1 (en) * 2006-04-21 2009-10-22 Heuliez Device for locking a retractable roof, and vehicle equipped with such a system
US20100164255A1 (en) * 2006-03-28 2010-07-01 Webasto Ag Roof locking apparatus for a vehicle
US20110254286A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2011-10-20 Renault S.A.S. Device for locking an opening panel of a motor vehicle
US20140030949A1 (en) * 2011-12-21 2014-01-30 Sattler Ag Textile fabrics with color effect
US11904670B2 (en) 2021-02-04 2024-02-20 Mytop Ip, Llc Sliding soft-top convertible roof

Families Citing this family (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE29812602U1 (en) * 1998-07-15 2000-03-30 Lunke Ventra Automotive GmbH, 58455 Witten Closing device for a locking component of a vehicle
DE19832385C2 (en) * 1998-07-18 2001-02-08 Daimler Chrysler Ag Actuator for a movable motor vehicle part
US6361086B1 (en) 1999-11-12 2002-03-26 Daimlerchrysler Corporation Mechanical latch
DE19957012B4 (en) * 1999-11-26 2004-08-26 Cts Fahrzeug-Dachsysteme Gmbh Adjustable vehicle roof with a folding top
AU2001271846A1 (en) * 2000-07-03 2002-01-30 Stoneridge Control Devices, Inc. Fuel door lock actuator
US6508502B2 (en) 2001-02-08 2003-01-21 Asc Incorporated Convertible roof and tonneau cover system
DE10112092C1 (en) * 2001-03-12 2002-08-08 Cts Fahrzeug Dachsysteme Gmbh Cabriolet vehicle roof adjustable between a closed position and an open position
DE10121858A1 (en) * 2001-05-06 2002-11-14 Cts Fahrzeug Dachsysteme Gmbh Locking device for an adjustable roof part in a vehicle roof
US6758511B2 (en) 2002-07-31 2004-07-06 Asc Incorporated Vehicle latch mechanism for convertible tops
US6820917B2 (en) 2002-09-18 2004-11-23 Asc Incorporated Vehicle convertible roof
US6695386B1 (en) 2002-09-18 2004-02-24 Asc Incorporated Vehicle retractable hardtop roof
DE10300883B3 (en) * 2003-01-13 2004-03-11 Dr.Ing.H.C. F. Porsche Ag Cover for closure for cabriolet vehicle roof has cover shell housing secured to closure via holder with ratchet openings for locating ratchet noses of closure
US7014247B2 (en) 2003-03-03 2006-03-21 Asc Incorporated Hardtop convertible
DE102004042261B4 (en) * 2004-09-01 2009-03-05 Wilhelm Karmann Gmbh Convertible car
DE102004046602A1 (en) * 2004-09-25 2006-04-06 Wilhelm Karmann Gmbh Convertible car
DE102004046601A1 (en) * 2004-09-25 2006-04-06 Wilhelm Karmann Gmbh Convertible car
EP1973811A4 (en) 2006-01-05 2010-03-03 Alex Bellehumeur Trustee Of Th Collapsible storage container and panel
US9045280B2 (en) 2006-01-05 2015-06-02 Alex Bellehumeur Collapsible storage container
DE102009010721A1 (en) * 2009-02-27 2010-09-02 Magna Car Top Systems Gmbh Locking device for a moving roof of a passenger car
US20110175390A1 (en) * 2010-01-15 2011-07-21 VTI Holdings, Inc. Retractable Tarp System with Automated Opening/Closing Mechanism
DE102011117313B4 (en) 2011-10-28 2013-05-29 Magna Car Top Systems Gmbh Locking device for a moving roof of a passenger car
US8491032B1 (en) 2012-07-13 2013-07-23 VTI Holdings, Inc. Retractable tarp system with automated closing mechanism
DE102014114804B4 (en) * 2014-10-13 2020-06-18 Webasto-Edscha Cabrio GmbH Convertible top with locking system

Citations (102)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
BE493260A (en) *
US404405A (en) * 1889-06-04 Carriage
US1056333A (en) * 1912-08-24 1913-03-18 James Hill Fastener for bags, trunks, &c.
US1174366A (en) * 1914-06-01 1916-03-07 Antoine Van Den Plas Door-locking mechanism.
US1269311A (en) * 1917-10-23 1918-06-11 Oscar C Rixson Cremorne bolt.
US1784279A (en) * 1929-01-07 1930-12-09 Ellerbeck Ben Brown Convertible automobile top
GB352786A (en) 1930-08-23 1931-07-16 Sunsaloon Bodies Ltd Improvements relating to removable head fittings for motor vehicles
US1831494A (en) * 1930-12-08 1931-11-10 Chicago Forging & Mfg Co Hood latch
US1856531A (en) * 1929-10-30 1932-05-03 Morris F Berg Latch for baling press doors
US1892512A (en) * 1930-09-20 1932-12-27 Kemp Lock Inc Lock
US1905814A (en) * 1931-08-31 1933-04-25 Ternstedt Mfg Co Hood latch
US1929371A (en) * 1930-06-28 1933-10-03 Noblitt Sparks Ind Inc Hood latch
GB413467A (en) 1933-05-09 1934-07-19 Ernest Metcalfe Improvements in and connected with folding hoods for motor vehicles
US1988346A (en) * 1933-02-16 1935-01-15 Willys P Wagner Automobile body construction
US2007873A (en) * 1931-12-19 1935-07-09 Paulin Georges Auguste Vehicle body top capable of being stowed away
US2201330A (en) * 1938-11-18 1940-05-21 Ternstedt Mfg Co Sliding top latching mechanism
GB536578A (en) 1939-08-25 1941-05-20 Ernst Gohner Ag Turen Und Fens Improvements in sash windows
US2360524A (en) * 1941-09-26 1944-10-17 Ternstedt Mfg Co Latch for convertible automobile tops
US2468251A (en) * 1944-05-19 1949-04-26 Rose Wiederman Quick-acting closure for openings in ships' bulkheads, decks, and walls
US2486905A (en) * 1946-01-17 1949-11-01 John W J Ackermans Convertible top latching means
DE805229C (en) * 1949-12-18 1951-05-10 Happich Gmbh Gebr Drive device for opening and closing folding sliding roofs
US2560459A (en) * 1947-09-10 1951-07-10 Briggs Mfg Co Locking mechanism for convertible tops
US2564446A (en) * 1948-09-29 1951-08-14 John B Parsons Rear flap operator for convertible tops
US2570261A (en) * 1948-07-01 1951-10-09 Jacobs Co F L Header locking mechanism
US2570260A (en) * 1948-02-19 1951-10-09 Jacobs Co F L Latch assembly for convertible automobile tops
US2586648A (en) * 1948-11-12 1952-02-19 Detroit Harvester Co Locking mechanism for folding tops
US2596355A (en) * 1947-01-18 1952-05-13 John W J Ackermans Let-down type automobile top
FR1049026A (en) * 1951-01-12 1953-12-28 Convertible body
US2674480A (en) * 1949-06-10 1954-04-06 Briggs Mfg Co Latch mechanism
US2704225A (en) * 1951-07-05 1955-03-15 Kaiser Motors Corp Convertible automobile top
US2709621A (en) * 1951-09-10 1955-05-31 Detroit Harvester Co Convertible top header locking mechanism
US2741503A (en) * 1953-11-20 1956-04-10 Iii Iverson G Thompson Motorized locking means
US2753202A (en) * 1955-01-11 1956-07-03 Ford Motor Co Lock mechanism
US2768024A (en) * 1953-02-09 1956-10-23 Ford Motor Co Retractable rigid automobile top
US2768025A (en) * 1952-11-26 1956-10-23 Ford Motor Co Retractible rigid automobile top
US2770489A (en) * 1951-09-01 1956-11-13 Gen Motors Corp Vehicle folding top structure and power actuating means therefor
US2785914A (en) * 1953-09-04 1957-03-19 Chrysler Corp Locking mechanism for convertible top
US2831718A (en) * 1955-01-11 1958-04-22 Gen Motors Corp Convertible top header lock assembly
US2841441A (en) * 1956-04-13 1958-07-01 Lou A Evans Convertible motor vehicle body having a rigid top
US2852292A (en) * 1956-03-14 1958-09-16 Ford Motor Co Convertible top power header lock
US2856231A (en) * 1954-04-05 1958-10-14 Mcculloch Motors Corp Rigid retractable automobile top with automatic latching means
US2869923A (en) * 1955-07-29 1959-01-20 Mulichak Steven Retractable hard top convertible
US2879988A (en) * 1957-08-09 1959-03-31 John A Klisch Quick opening and locking mechanism
US2886364A (en) * 1954-09-15 1959-05-12 Gen Motors Corp Convertible top header lock assembly
US2916327A (en) * 1958-12-29 1959-12-08 Gen Motors Corp Power operated convertible top header latch
US2926943A (en) * 1957-10-04 1960-03-01 Gen Motors Corp Closure latch
US2939742A (en) * 1958-04-03 1960-06-07 Gen Motors Corp Foldable vehicle top
US3004788A (en) * 1959-10-01 1961-10-17 Gen Motors Corp Closure latch
US3059962A (en) * 1960-03-02 1962-10-23 Ford Motor Co Vehicle body with retractable rigid top
US3089719A (en) * 1960-07-22 1963-05-14 Dura Corp Power operated latch for convertible tops
US3135541A (en) * 1962-11-08 1964-06-02 Gen Motors Corp Convertible top latching mechanism
US3151375A (en) * 1961-06-21 1964-10-06 Merit Company Casket lock structure
US3314703A (en) * 1965-03-01 1967-04-18 Valley Metal Products Company Panic release unit for windows and doors
US3362740A (en) * 1964-10-13 1968-01-09 Gen Motors Corp Locking mechanism
US3375037A (en) * 1966-05-23 1968-03-26 Chrysler Corp Retractable hardtop
US3400562A (en) * 1965-12-21 1968-09-10 Seymour Products Corp Latching device
US3425742A (en) * 1967-08-08 1969-02-04 Benjamin Thomas Rauber Jr Locking means for locking the top of a convertible automobile
US3443834A (en) * 1966-06-07 1969-05-13 Daimler Benz Ag Pressure-medium-actuated locking mechanism of cover or similar parts,especially of convertible tops for motor vehicles
DE1505721A1 (en) * 1966-04-16 1970-07-02 Daimler Benz Ag Device for locking a motor vehicle folding top
US3586360A (en) * 1969-06-27 1971-06-22 Langenau Mfg Co The Latch mechanism
US3712665A (en) * 1969-03-06 1973-01-23 Porsche Kg Lock for a removable roof attachment for vehicles
US3751949A (en) * 1971-10-01 1973-08-14 A Castle Locking device
US3891252A (en) * 1973-05-30 1975-06-24 Daimler Benz Ag Lock mechanism
US3994524A (en) * 1973-05-30 1976-11-30 Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft Control linkage for foldable top motor vehicles
US4470277A (en) * 1982-07-07 1984-09-11 La Gard, Inc. Security door locking mechanism
US4537440A (en) * 1983-04-29 1985-08-27 Asc Incorporated Vehicle with a convertible top
EP0188774A1 (en) * 1985-01-25 1986-07-30 MAN Nutzfahrzeuge Aktiengesellschaft Hatch cover latching device for the driver's cabin of a motor vehicle
US4618180A (en) * 1985-09-03 1986-10-21 Muscat Peter P Latching mechanism for convertible top
US4664436A (en) * 1984-04-10 1987-05-12 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft Locking device for an automobile top
US4702505A (en) * 1984-09-06 1987-10-27 Asc Incorporated Convertible top latch mechanism
US4712828A (en) * 1985-11-07 1987-12-15 California Auto Trends Convertible top apparatus for midengine automobiles
US4720133A (en) * 1986-02-10 1988-01-19 Asc Incorporated Convertible top structure
US4729592A (en) * 1985-11-20 1988-03-08 Mazda Motor Corporation Convertible vehicle body structure
DE3635887A1 (en) * 1986-10-22 1988-05-05 Ernst Dipl Ing Maier Pivotable vehicle roof
US4746163A (en) * 1986-05-16 1988-05-24 Jubbu Designers Inc. Combined removable panel-convertible top system
US4801173A (en) * 1982-01-22 1989-01-31 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche, Aktiengesellschaft Removable roof for a motor vehicle
US4817999A (en) * 1987-09-24 1989-04-04 Asc, Incorporated Convertible header latch mechanism
US4830425A (en) * 1988-01-04 1989-05-16 Muscat Peter P Latching system for a convertible top
US4830426A (en) * 1987-05-12 1989-05-16 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft Latching arrangement for a top at the windshield frame of a motor vehicle
US4854634A (en) * 1986-10-02 1989-08-08 Mazda Motor Corporation Upper body structure for a convertible vehicle
US4895409A (en) * 1987-01-12 1990-01-23 Mazda Motor Corporation Convertible vehicle body structure
US4936626A (en) * 1988-03-31 1990-06-26 Daimler-Benz Ag Swivel-assistance to a roof-skin holding bow forming the lower end of a folding canopy
US4950022A (en) * 1989-08-30 1990-08-21 Pattee Clark C Convertible hard-top passenger vehicle
US4984841A (en) * 1987-07-24 1991-01-15 Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft Folding top for vehicles
EP0261379B1 (en) * 1986-09-20 1991-02-27 Industriekreditbank Ag Deutsche Industriebank Collapsible hood for vehicles
US5004291A (en) * 1987-07-24 1991-04-02 Daimler-Berg Ag Top framework of a folding top for vehicles
US5033789A (en) * 1989-03-31 1991-07-23 Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha Convertible car body structure
US5042869A (en) * 1989-12-11 1991-08-27 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Ag Locking arrangement for a motor vehicle top
US5046767A (en) * 1989-12-13 1991-09-10 Jubbu Designer's Inc. Convertible top latching mechanism
US5058939A (en) * 1990-11-28 1991-10-22 Asc Incorporated Power latch system
US5064241A (en) * 1989-07-22 1991-11-12 Daimler-Benz Ag Closing device for convertible vehicles
US5067768A (en) * 1989-10-23 1991-11-26 Wickes Manufacturing Company Power convertible top with automatic top and tonneau sequencing
US5085483A (en) * 1989-11-17 1992-02-04 Asc Incorporated Convertible top latching mechanism
US5118158A (en) * 1991-03-04 1992-06-02 Asc Incorporated Convertible top linkage assembly with laterally moving rear quarter windows
EP0492006A1 (en) * 1990-12-22 1992-07-01 Design + Technik Gmbh Lowering device of the free edge of vehicle soft top or similar
EP0494366A2 (en) * 1991-01-07 1992-07-15 Mercedes-Benz Ag Vehicule roof
US5154479A (en) * 1991-02-28 1992-10-13 Wickes Manufacturing Company Power header latch for convertible top
US5186516A (en) * 1987-09-24 1993-02-16 Asc Incorporated Power latch system
US5195798A (en) * 1990-11-29 1993-03-23 Mercedes-Benz Ag Retractable roof for vehicles
US5267769A (en) * 1991-07-16 1993-12-07 Mercedes-Benz Ag Manually operable folding top for vehicles using automatic-ejection snap-action closures
US5301987A (en) * 1992-09-04 1994-04-12 Asc Incorporated Convertible top stack latch
US5489146A (en) * 1993-06-21 1996-02-06 Dura Convertible Systems, Inc. Substitute top for convertibles

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE536578C (en) * 1927-07-08 1931-10-24 Hans Gartmayr Cover grille for catwalks, manhole covers, ventilation ducts, foot scratches and the like. like
US3353864A (en) * 1965-10-23 1967-11-21 Gen Motors Corp Convertible top latch mechanism
US3845976A (en) * 1973-08-06 1974-11-05 R Peterson Casket locking mechanism
US5219199A (en) * 1990-10-26 1993-06-15 Prince Corporation Stabilized slide-out visor
DE9203285U1 (en) * 1992-03-11 1993-07-15 Wilhelm Karmann GmbH, 4500 Osnabrück Locking device for a convertible top
DE19507431C1 (en) * 1995-03-03 1996-08-01 Daimler Benz Ag Hardtop vehicle

Patent Citations (103)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US404405A (en) * 1889-06-04 Carriage
BE493260A (en) *
US1056333A (en) * 1912-08-24 1913-03-18 James Hill Fastener for bags, trunks, &c.
US1174366A (en) * 1914-06-01 1916-03-07 Antoine Van Den Plas Door-locking mechanism.
US1269311A (en) * 1917-10-23 1918-06-11 Oscar C Rixson Cremorne bolt.
US1784279A (en) * 1929-01-07 1930-12-09 Ellerbeck Ben Brown Convertible automobile top
US1856531A (en) * 1929-10-30 1932-05-03 Morris F Berg Latch for baling press doors
US1929371A (en) * 1930-06-28 1933-10-03 Noblitt Sparks Ind Inc Hood latch
GB352786A (en) 1930-08-23 1931-07-16 Sunsaloon Bodies Ltd Improvements relating to removable head fittings for motor vehicles
US1892512A (en) * 1930-09-20 1932-12-27 Kemp Lock Inc Lock
US1831494A (en) * 1930-12-08 1931-11-10 Chicago Forging & Mfg Co Hood latch
US1905814A (en) * 1931-08-31 1933-04-25 Ternstedt Mfg Co Hood latch
US2007873A (en) * 1931-12-19 1935-07-09 Paulin Georges Auguste Vehicle body top capable of being stowed away
US1988346A (en) * 1933-02-16 1935-01-15 Willys P Wagner Automobile body construction
GB413467A (en) 1933-05-09 1934-07-19 Ernest Metcalfe Improvements in and connected with folding hoods for motor vehicles
US2201330A (en) * 1938-11-18 1940-05-21 Ternstedt Mfg Co Sliding top latching mechanism
GB536578A (en) 1939-08-25 1941-05-20 Ernst Gohner Ag Turen Und Fens Improvements in sash windows
US2360524A (en) * 1941-09-26 1944-10-17 Ternstedt Mfg Co Latch for convertible automobile tops
US2468251A (en) * 1944-05-19 1949-04-26 Rose Wiederman Quick-acting closure for openings in ships' bulkheads, decks, and walls
US2486905A (en) * 1946-01-17 1949-11-01 John W J Ackermans Convertible top latching means
US2596355A (en) * 1947-01-18 1952-05-13 John W J Ackermans Let-down type automobile top
US2560459A (en) * 1947-09-10 1951-07-10 Briggs Mfg Co Locking mechanism for convertible tops
US2570260A (en) * 1948-02-19 1951-10-09 Jacobs Co F L Latch assembly for convertible automobile tops
US2570261A (en) * 1948-07-01 1951-10-09 Jacobs Co F L Header locking mechanism
US2564446A (en) * 1948-09-29 1951-08-14 John B Parsons Rear flap operator for convertible tops
US2586648A (en) * 1948-11-12 1952-02-19 Detroit Harvester Co Locking mechanism for folding tops
US2674480A (en) * 1949-06-10 1954-04-06 Briggs Mfg Co Latch mechanism
DE805229C (en) * 1949-12-18 1951-05-10 Happich Gmbh Gebr Drive device for opening and closing folding sliding roofs
FR1049026A (en) * 1951-01-12 1953-12-28 Convertible body
US2704225A (en) * 1951-07-05 1955-03-15 Kaiser Motors Corp Convertible automobile top
US2770489A (en) * 1951-09-01 1956-11-13 Gen Motors Corp Vehicle folding top structure and power actuating means therefor
US2709621A (en) * 1951-09-10 1955-05-31 Detroit Harvester Co Convertible top header locking mechanism
US2768025A (en) * 1952-11-26 1956-10-23 Ford Motor Co Retractible rigid automobile top
US2768024A (en) * 1953-02-09 1956-10-23 Ford Motor Co Retractable rigid automobile top
US2785914A (en) * 1953-09-04 1957-03-19 Chrysler Corp Locking mechanism for convertible top
US2741503A (en) * 1953-11-20 1956-04-10 Iii Iverson G Thompson Motorized locking means
US2856231A (en) * 1954-04-05 1958-10-14 Mcculloch Motors Corp Rigid retractable automobile top with automatic latching means
US2886364A (en) * 1954-09-15 1959-05-12 Gen Motors Corp Convertible top header lock assembly
US2831718A (en) * 1955-01-11 1958-04-22 Gen Motors Corp Convertible top header lock assembly
US2753202A (en) * 1955-01-11 1956-07-03 Ford Motor Co Lock mechanism
US2869923A (en) * 1955-07-29 1959-01-20 Mulichak Steven Retractable hard top convertible
US2852292A (en) * 1956-03-14 1958-09-16 Ford Motor Co Convertible top power header lock
US2841441A (en) * 1956-04-13 1958-07-01 Lou A Evans Convertible motor vehicle body having a rigid top
US2879988A (en) * 1957-08-09 1959-03-31 John A Klisch Quick opening and locking mechanism
US2926943A (en) * 1957-10-04 1960-03-01 Gen Motors Corp Closure latch
US2939742A (en) * 1958-04-03 1960-06-07 Gen Motors Corp Foldable vehicle top
US2916327A (en) * 1958-12-29 1959-12-08 Gen Motors Corp Power operated convertible top header latch
US3004788A (en) * 1959-10-01 1961-10-17 Gen Motors Corp Closure latch
US3059962A (en) * 1960-03-02 1962-10-23 Ford Motor Co Vehicle body with retractable rigid top
US3089719A (en) * 1960-07-22 1963-05-14 Dura Corp Power operated latch for convertible tops
US3151375A (en) * 1961-06-21 1964-10-06 Merit Company Casket lock structure
US3135541A (en) * 1962-11-08 1964-06-02 Gen Motors Corp Convertible top latching mechanism
US3362740A (en) * 1964-10-13 1968-01-09 Gen Motors Corp Locking mechanism
US3314703A (en) * 1965-03-01 1967-04-18 Valley Metal Products Company Panic release unit for windows and doors
US3400562A (en) * 1965-12-21 1968-09-10 Seymour Products Corp Latching device
DE1505721A1 (en) * 1966-04-16 1970-07-02 Daimler Benz Ag Device for locking a motor vehicle folding top
US3375037A (en) * 1966-05-23 1968-03-26 Chrysler Corp Retractable hardtop
US3443834A (en) * 1966-06-07 1969-05-13 Daimler Benz Ag Pressure-medium-actuated locking mechanism of cover or similar parts,especially of convertible tops for motor vehicles
US3425742A (en) * 1967-08-08 1969-02-04 Benjamin Thomas Rauber Jr Locking means for locking the top of a convertible automobile
US3712665A (en) * 1969-03-06 1973-01-23 Porsche Kg Lock for a removable roof attachment for vehicles
US3586360A (en) * 1969-06-27 1971-06-22 Langenau Mfg Co The Latch mechanism
US3751949A (en) * 1971-10-01 1973-08-14 A Castle Locking device
US3891252A (en) * 1973-05-30 1975-06-24 Daimler Benz Ag Lock mechanism
US3994524A (en) * 1973-05-30 1976-11-30 Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft Control linkage for foldable top motor vehicles
US4801173A (en) * 1982-01-22 1989-01-31 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche, Aktiengesellschaft Removable roof for a motor vehicle
US4470277A (en) * 1982-07-07 1984-09-11 La Gard, Inc. Security door locking mechanism
US4537440A (en) * 1983-04-29 1985-08-27 Asc Incorporated Vehicle with a convertible top
US4664436A (en) * 1984-04-10 1987-05-12 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft Locking device for an automobile top
US4702505A (en) * 1984-09-06 1987-10-27 Asc Incorporated Convertible top latch mechanism
EP0188774A1 (en) * 1985-01-25 1986-07-30 MAN Nutzfahrzeuge Aktiengesellschaft Hatch cover latching device for the driver's cabin of a motor vehicle
US4618180A (en) * 1985-09-03 1986-10-21 Muscat Peter P Latching mechanism for convertible top
US4712828A (en) * 1985-11-07 1987-12-15 California Auto Trends Convertible top apparatus for midengine automobiles
US4729592A (en) * 1985-11-20 1988-03-08 Mazda Motor Corporation Convertible vehicle body structure
US4720133A (en) * 1986-02-10 1988-01-19 Asc Incorporated Convertible top structure
US4746163A (en) * 1986-05-16 1988-05-24 Jubbu Designers Inc. Combined removable panel-convertible top system
EP0261379B1 (en) * 1986-09-20 1991-02-27 Industriekreditbank Ag Deutsche Industriebank Collapsible hood for vehicles
US4854634A (en) * 1986-10-02 1989-08-08 Mazda Motor Corporation Upper body structure for a convertible vehicle
DE3635887A1 (en) * 1986-10-22 1988-05-05 Ernst Dipl Ing Maier Pivotable vehicle roof
US4895409A (en) * 1987-01-12 1990-01-23 Mazda Motor Corporation Convertible vehicle body structure
US4830426A (en) * 1987-05-12 1989-05-16 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft Latching arrangement for a top at the windshield frame of a motor vehicle
US5004291A (en) * 1987-07-24 1991-04-02 Daimler-Berg Ag Top framework of a folding top for vehicles
US4984841A (en) * 1987-07-24 1991-01-15 Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft Folding top for vehicles
US4817999A (en) * 1987-09-24 1989-04-04 Asc, Incorporated Convertible header latch mechanism
US5186516A (en) * 1987-09-24 1993-02-16 Asc Incorporated Power latch system
US4830425A (en) * 1988-01-04 1989-05-16 Muscat Peter P Latching system for a convertible top
US4936626A (en) * 1988-03-31 1990-06-26 Daimler-Benz Ag Swivel-assistance to a roof-skin holding bow forming the lower end of a folding canopy
US5033789A (en) * 1989-03-31 1991-07-23 Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha Convertible car body structure
US5064241A (en) * 1989-07-22 1991-11-12 Daimler-Benz Ag Closing device for convertible vehicles
US4950022A (en) * 1989-08-30 1990-08-21 Pattee Clark C Convertible hard-top passenger vehicle
US5067768A (en) * 1989-10-23 1991-11-26 Wickes Manufacturing Company Power convertible top with automatic top and tonneau sequencing
US5085483A (en) * 1989-11-17 1992-02-04 Asc Incorporated Convertible top latching mechanism
US5042869A (en) * 1989-12-11 1991-08-27 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Ag Locking arrangement for a motor vehicle top
US5046767A (en) * 1989-12-13 1991-09-10 Jubbu Designer's Inc. Convertible top latching mechanism
US5058939A (en) * 1990-11-28 1991-10-22 Asc Incorporated Power latch system
US5195798A (en) * 1990-11-29 1993-03-23 Mercedes-Benz Ag Retractable roof for vehicles
EP0492006A1 (en) * 1990-12-22 1992-07-01 Design + Technik Gmbh Lowering device of the free edge of vehicle soft top or similar
US5269586A (en) * 1990-12-22 1993-12-14 Design & Technik Gmbh Device for lowering the free end of a vehicle cover
EP0494366A2 (en) * 1991-01-07 1992-07-15 Mercedes-Benz Ag Vehicule roof
US5154479A (en) * 1991-02-28 1992-10-13 Wickes Manufacturing Company Power header latch for convertible top
US5118158A (en) * 1991-03-04 1992-06-02 Asc Incorporated Convertible top linkage assembly with laterally moving rear quarter windows
US5267769A (en) * 1991-07-16 1993-12-07 Mercedes-Benz Ag Manually operable folding top for vehicles using automatic-ejection snap-action closures
US5301987A (en) * 1992-09-04 1994-04-12 Asc Incorporated Convertible top stack latch
US5489146A (en) * 1993-06-21 1996-02-06 Dura Convertible Systems, Inc. Substitute top for convertibles

Non-Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
Drawings of latch assembly used in a convertible roof for a Geo Tracker (on or before 1992). *
Manual of Latch Handle and Lock Assembly used in a convertible roof for the Geo Metro (on or before 1992). *
Photographs of Mercedes 500SL front header and tonneau cover cam and striker systems (prior to Mar. 1994). *
Photographs of Porsche 911 front header latch system (prior to Mar. 1994). *
Saab Owners Workshop Manual, p. 239 Haynes Publications, Inc. (1986). *

Cited By (63)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6158786A (en) * 1997-05-21 2000-12-12 Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche Ag Latch for a top of a vehicle, especially an automobile
US6042174A (en) 1997-08-22 2000-03-28 Asc Incorporated Latching and control apparatus for an automotive vehicle convertible roof
US6155614A (en) * 1998-05-29 2000-12-05 Asc Incorporated Latching system for an automotive vehicle convertible roof
EP1279539A2 (en) * 1999-03-04 2003-01-29 Josef Stehle + Söhne AG Tarpaulin drive
EP1279539A3 (en) * 1999-03-04 2003-04-16 Josef Stehle + Söhne AG Tarpaulin drive
US6290281B1 (en) 1999-05-26 2001-09-18 Asc Incorporated Power latch for an automotive vehicle convertible roof system
US6419297B2 (en) * 1999-12-13 2002-07-16 Edscha Cabrio-Verdecksysteme Gmbh Unlocking device for vehicle convertible tops
EP1160113A2 (en) * 2000-05-31 2001-12-05 Hoerbiger Hydraulik GmbH Driving assembly for swingable parts of soft tops
EP1160113A3 (en) * 2000-05-31 2002-09-25 Hoerbiger Hydraulik GmbH Driving assembly for swingable parts of soft tops
US20040201243A1 (en) * 2000-06-23 2004-10-14 Andreas Hasselgruber Locking arrangement for a movable hardtop vehicle roof
US6953217B2 (en) * 2000-06-23 2005-10-11 Cts Fahrzeug - Dachsysteme Gmbh Locking arrangement for a movable hardtop vehicle roof
US6837535B2 (en) 2002-08-15 2005-01-04 Asc Incorporated Convertible roof system
US20040032147A1 (en) * 2002-08-15 2004-02-19 Stefan Eichhorst Convertible roof latch
US20040119317A1 (en) * 2002-08-15 2004-06-24 Markus Wulf Latch for an automotive vehicle having a convertible roof
US6767047B2 (en) 2002-08-15 2004-07-27 Asc Incorporated Convertible roof latch
US20040032146A1 (en) * 2002-08-15 2004-02-19 Frank Plesternings Convertible roof system
EP1389550A2 (en) 2002-08-15 2004-02-18 SSR Roof Systems, LLC Latch for an automotive vehicle having a convertible roof
US7140666B2 (en) 2002-08-15 2006-11-28 Asc Incorporated Latch for an automobile vehicle having a convertible roof
US7021696B2 (en) 2002-11-14 2006-04-04 Asc Incorporated Convertible top latch
US7226110B2 (en) 2002-11-14 2007-06-05 Asc Incorporated Convertible top latch
US20050285410A1 (en) * 2002-11-14 2005-12-29 Doncov Stephen A Convertible top latch
US7198318B2 (en) 2003-03-24 2007-04-03 Asc Incorporated Retractable roof structural system
US20040222658A1 (en) * 2003-03-24 2004-11-11 Christopher Dilluvio Retractable roof structural system
US6935675B2 (en) * 2003-06-30 2005-08-30 Johnan Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Retractable roof fixing apparatus
US20040262942A1 (en) * 2003-06-30 2004-12-30 Michael Willard Convertible roof apparatus with power roof bow linked to a tensioning bow
US20040262943A1 (en) * 2003-06-30 2004-12-30 Johnan Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Retractable roof fixing apparatus
US6966599B2 (en) 2003-06-30 2005-11-22 Asc Incorporated Convertible roof apparatus with power roof bow linked to a tensioning bow
US20050194811A1 (en) * 2004-03-03 2005-09-08 Benteler Automobiltechnik Gmbh Convertible automobile
US7128363B2 (en) * 2004-03-03 2006-10-31 Benteler Automobil Technik Gmbh Convertible automobile
US7104587B2 (en) 2004-04-30 2006-09-12 Asc Incorporated Joint locking device for a convertible roof system
US20060061130A1 (en) * 2004-04-30 2006-03-23 Asc Incorporated Convertible roof bow tensioning apparatus
US20060255620A1 (en) * 2004-04-30 2006-11-16 Macnee Arthur L Iii Joint locking device for a convertible roof system
US20050242615A1 (en) * 2004-04-30 2005-11-03 Garska Bradley R Convertible roof bow tensioning apparatus
US20050242616A1 (en) * 2004-04-30 2005-11-03 Macnee Arthur L Iii Joint locking device for a convertible roof system
US6957842B1 (en) 2004-04-30 2005-10-25 Asc Incorporated Convertible roof bow tensioning apparatus
US7341303B2 (en) 2004-04-30 2008-03-11 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Joint locking device for a convertible roof system
US7380863B2 (en) 2004-04-30 2008-06-03 Specialty Vehicle Aquisition Corp. Convertible roof bow tensioning apparatus
US7559585B2 (en) 2004-08-20 2009-07-14 Wilhelm Karmann Gmbh Support frame for header latch assembly
US20060038411A1 (en) * 2004-08-20 2006-02-23 Frank Plesternings Support frame for header latch assembly
US7347482B2 (en) 2004-08-31 2008-03-25 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Tonneau cover system
US7246841B2 (en) 2004-09-23 2007-07-24 Asc Incorporated In-folding convertible roof
US20060097542A1 (en) * 2004-09-23 2006-05-11 Dilluvio Christopher J In-folding convertible roof
US7762612B2 (en) * 2005-07-21 2010-07-27 Wilhelm Karmann Gmbh Convertible roof that latches to an upper transverse frame part of the windshield frame
US20080290688A1 (en) * 2005-07-21 2008-11-27 Franz-Ulrich Brockhoff Convertible Roof that Latches to an Upper Transverse Frame Part of the Windshield Frame
US8029039B2 (en) * 2006-03-28 2011-10-04 Webasto Ag Roof locking apparatus for a vehicle
US20100164255A1 (en) * 2006-03-28 2010-07-01 Webasto Ag Roof locking apparatus for a vehicle
US8167355B2 (en) * 2006-04-21 2012-05-01 Heuliez Sas Device for locking a retractable roof, and vehicle equipped with such a system
US20090261625A1 (en) * 2006-04-21 2009-10-22 Heuliez Device for locking a retractable roof, and vehicle equipped with such a system
US7690716B2 (en) 2006-05-23 2010-04-06 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Convertible roof
US20070284909A1 (en) * 2006-05-23 2007-12-13 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Convertible Roof
US7566090B2 (en) * 2006-05-26 2009-07-28 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Centering device for a motor vehicle having a retractable or detachable top
US20090072591A1 (en) * 2006-05-26 2009-03-19 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Centering Device for a Motor Vehicle Having a Retractable or Detachable Top
US20080284200A1 (en) * 2007-05-15 2008-11-20 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Automotive Vehicle Convertible Roof System
US7857373B2 (en) 2007-05-15 2010-12-28 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Automotive vehicle convertible roof system
US20090179453A1 (en) * 2008-01-10 2009-07-16 Magna Car Top Systems Gmbh Closure for a movable roof
US7959209B2 (en) * 2008-01-10 2011-06-14 Magna Car Top Systems Gmbh Closure for a movable roof
US8025328B2 (en) 2008-03-07 2011-09-27 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Automotive vehicle convertible roof system
US20090224568A1 (en) * 2008-03-07 2009-09-10 Specialty Vehicle Acquisition Corp. Automotive vehicle convertible roof system
US20110254286A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2011-10-20 Renault S.A.S. Device for locking an opening panel of a motor vehicle
US8757676B2 (en) * 2008-09-30 2014-06-24 Renault S.A.S. Device for locking an opening panel of a motor vehicle
US20140030949A1 (en) * 2011-12-21 2014-01-30 Sattler Ag Textile fabrics with color effect
US10047460B2 (en) * 2011-12-21 2018-08-14 Sattler Sun-Tex Gmbh Textile fabrics with color effect
US11904670B2 (en) 2021-02-04 2024-02-20 Mytop Ip, Llc Sliding soft-top convertible roof

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US5624149A (en) 1997-04-29
US5772275A (en) 1998-06-30

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US5678881A (en) Apparatus and method for securing a convertible roof to an automotive vehicle
US5301987A (en) Convertible top stack latch
US6155614A (en) Latching system for an automotive vehicle convertible roof
US5941598A (en) Drive mechanism for an automotive vehicle sunroof assembly
US6827392B2 (en) Automotive vehicle with open air system
US6508502B2 (en) Convertible roof and tonneau cover system
US7226110B2 (en) Convertible top latch
US7488029B2 (en) Independently opening doors for an automotive door opening
US7341303B2 (en) Joint locking device for a convertible roof system
US5903119A (en) Convertible roof actuation mechanism
US6669278B2 (en) Automotive vehicle roof system having multiple sunroofs
US6796600B1 (en) Vehicle body with pre-hung midgate panel
EP1449698B1 (en) Vehicle open roof apparatus
US7140666B2 (en) Latch for an automobile vehicle having a convertible roof
US6767047B2 (en) Convertible roof latch
US6568495B1 (en) Automotive vehicle hood system
US6957842B1 (en) Convertible roof bow tensioning apparatus
US20080277975A1 (en) Locking Mechanism for a Folding Top Compartment Cover of a Convertible
US7278676B2 (en) Retractable roof for a vehicle
US7681938B2 (en) Convertible vehicle
US7204541B2 (en) Motor vehicle
US7744145B2 (en) Panoramic retractable top

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
CC Certificate of correction
FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

AS Assignment

Owner name: COMERICA BANK, AS AGENT, MICHIGAN

Free format text: AMENDED AND RESTATED SECURITY;ASSIGNORS:ASC INCORPORATED (MICHIGAN CORPORATION);ASC EUROPE, LLC (MICHIGAN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY);REEL/FRAME:014402/0001

Effective date: 20030602

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

AS Assignment

Owner name: SPECIALTY VEHICLE ACQUISITION CORP., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ASC INCORPORATED;REEL/FRAME:019714/0442

Effective date: 20070628

Owner name: SPECIALTY VEHICLE ACQUISITION CORP.,CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ASC INCORPORATED;REEL/FRAME:019714/0442

Effective date: 20070628

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362

FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 20091021